Oklahoma Law Enforcement Leaders, Latino Organizers Speak Out Against State Immigration Bill

Oklahoma law enforcement leaders say a new law that would criminally charge anyone living in Oklahoma without proper documentation will place crime victims at risk.

The Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police released a joint statement on Tuesday about House Bill 4156, which they said could destroy any connections law enforcement has made with immigrant communities.

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The group also said the bill could make victims afraid to report crimes.

Latino caucus members said they plan to protest the bill outside the Oklahoma State Capitol Wednesday morning, which also coincides with Hispanic Cultural Day.

Normally an annual celebration, Oklahoma Sen. Michael Brooks-Jimenez said the focus on Wednesday will be more political.

Jimenez said the day will be for Latino advocates to voice concerns about HB 4156, as organizers behind the rally say the bill will hurt immigrant families that obey state laws and pay taxes.

Another concern surrounding the bill is if it could lead to racial profiling, with Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond saying they are working with law enforcement to make sure nobody is targeted.

The rally begins at 9 a.m. outside of the Oklahoma State Capitol, and Jimenez said they are expecting hundreds of people from multiple communities.

News 9 also spoke with Gov. Kevin Stitt earlier this month, who said he's working on a task force to make sure those who are in Oklahoma legally are not targeted.